Supersession
Also called superseded part number
Reviewed by Dasha ShakovVP Marketing, Proton
Updated
What is supersession?
Supersession is a manufacturer’s replacement of an old part number with a new one for the same or an improved part. Orders for the old number should be filled with the new one; the old number is said to be superseded, and a part can be superseded several times.
How it works
Distributors record the chain in the item record or cross-reference so that an order for any old number finds the current part, and so stock of the old part sells before the new one is bought. A supersession differs from a substitute, which is a different product the customer agrees to accept.
Supersession example
A customer orders filter element 4410 from an old manual. The ERP shows 4410 superseded by 4410A and then by 4412, and the order is filled with 4412.
Related terms
- Cross-referenceA cross-reference is a lookup table that links a distributor’s SKUs to other numbers for the same or an equivalent item.
- Manufacturer part number (MPN)A manufacturer part number (MPN) is the code a manufacturer uses to identify a specific product, printed in its catalogs and often on the product itself.
- Substitute itemA substitute item is a different product shipped in place of the one ordered because it does the same job, such as another brand with the same specs.
- Stock keeping unit (SKU)A stock keeping unit (SKU) is the unique code a distributor gives each item it sells, so each size, color and pack can be stocked and priced separately.
